When it comes to flooring installation, the underlayment plays a crucial role in ensuring a stable, durable, and level surface. Different underlayments are designed for various types of flooring and substrates, and choosing the right one can make a significant difference in the performance of your floor. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between common types of underlayment, such as tile adhesive, mortar, thinset, and cement, as well as dive into the various underlayment options offered by Laticrete. We’ll also help you choose the best underlayment for your specific project needs.
1. Tile Adhesive: What is It and When to Use It?
Tile adhesive is a type of bonding agent that helps adhere tiles to surfaces like walls and floors. Unlike traditional mortars or thinsets, tile adhesive is often pre-mixed and can be applied directly to the substrate. Tile adhesives are generally used for lighter, smaller projects where you need a quick, easy solution, such as in wall tile installation. However, they aren’t always suitable for large or heavy tiles, or for areas that will experience significant foot traffic or moisture.
Ideal Use:
Small projects like bathroom walls or backsplashes.
Quick applications where pre-mixed convenience is desired.
Low-traffic areas.
2. Mortar: The Traditional Flooring Underlayment
Mortar is a traditional mixture of cement, sand, and water that creates a thick paste used to set tiles on floors and walls. Mortar is often used when a stronger, more durable bond is needed, especially for larger tiles or heavy-duty applications. Mortars can be applied as thick beds to help correct uneven floors or create a strong base layer for tile installation.
Ideal Use:
Large or heavy tiles.
Floors that need a thick underlayment for leveling.
Exterior and high-traffic areas.
3. Thinset Mortar: The Modern Standard for Tile Installation
Thinset mortar is a type of cement-based adhesive that provides a thin, firm layer for setting tiles. Unlike traditional mortar, thinset is designed to be applied in a much thinner layer—typically between 1/16” to 1/8” thick. Thinset is most commonly used for interior flooring and wall tiles, providing a strong bond and smooth surface for most types of tile, including ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone.
Ideal Use:
Interior tile installations.
Light to medium traffic areas.
Thin layer adhesive for even surfaces.
4. Cement: A Durable, Heavy-Duty Option for Substrates
Cement-based underlayment refers to materials that use cement as the main binding agent. These products are specifically designed to provide a solid, level foundation for various types of flooring installations. Cement underlayments are often used to correct uneven floors, provide moisture resistance, and create an ideal surface for tile adhesive, thinset, or other flooring materials.
Ideal Use:
Leveling or smoothing out substrates.
High-traffic areas or commercial spaces.
Waterproofing or moisture-resistant applications.
5. How to Choose the Right Types of Underlayment
Choosing the right underlayment depends on several factors, including the type of flooring, the condition of the substrate, and the specific requirements of your project. Here are some guidelines to help you select the correct underlayment:
For Uneven Floors: If your floor has significant height variations or imperfections, consider using Laticrete NXT Level Plus or NXT Level to smooth and level the surface.
For Light Applications: For smaller projects or areas with minimal leveling required, Laticrete NXT Level Flow may be the best choice.
For Thin Tile Installation: If you’re installing standard-sized tiles, Laticrete LHT Thinset or NXT Level can be used in conjunction to ensure a smooth, strong bond.
For Commercial and High-Traffic Areas: For heavy-duty applications or areas with high foot traffic, Laticrete NXT Level Plus offers superior durability and resistance.
Understanding the differences between tile adhesive, mortar, thinset, and cement, along with the various Laticrete underlayment options, is essential for selecting the right product for your project. By considering factors such as substrate condition, traffic levels, and the type of flooring, you can ensure your floor installation is as durable, stable, and long-lasting as possible. Whether you’re renovating a small bathroom or working on a large commercial project, Laticrete’s range of underlayment products provides a solution to meet every need.
